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Updated on Jan 31, 2024

John Davis

Expert Automotive Writer

Reviewed by Kathleen Flear, Director of Content

Edited by Jessica Barrett, Senior Car & Insurance Editor

What's on this page?

How much does it cost to replace an exhaust manifold?
Where can I get my exhaust manifold replaced?
How will a mechanic replace my exhaust manifold?
What happens if I don’t replace my exhaust manifold?
What is an exhaust manifold?
Can I replace my exhaust manifold myself?
FAQs
Meet Our Experts

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How much does it cost to replace an exhaust manifold?

The average total exhaust manifold replacement cost is $841, with $448 for parts and $393 for mechanic labor costs. The exact price will depend on your vehicle.

How long does it take to replace an exhaust manifold? It typically takes a certified mechanic 3.3 hours hours to replace an exhaust manifold. This timeframe includes an inspection, a diagnosis, and then the full replacement.

Here’s a summary of exhaust manifold repair costs for different vehicles:

Estimate Date	Customer	Car	Fair Cost Estimate	Parts Cost	Labor Cost	Labor Time
April 24, 2024	Isabelle, 24 Sioux Falls, SD	Ram 1500	$580	$307	$273	2.8 Hours
April 21, 2024	Herman, 30 New Orleans, LA	Mazda CX-30	$199	$123	$76	0.6 Hours
April 16, 2024	Belle, 38 Oxford, FL	Mini Cooper	$610	$307	$302	2.8 Hours
April 16, 2024	Richard, 38 Oxford, FL	Mitsubishi Mirage	$188	$123	$65	0.6 Hours
April 12, 2024	Tom, 45 Sparks, NV	Geo Prizm	$202	$123	$79	0.6 Hours

How did we estimate these prices?
Jerry's experts researched and collected data from 2500+ real repair shops in all 50 states in the US, including everything from the total cost of repair services to the hourly labor cost for mechanic labor in each shop. We combined that data with our expert database of hundreds of real repair jobs, thousands of real cars, millions of real car part prices in order to best estimate the cost of each repair service. Our labor cost estimate is calculated by taking the average hourly labor rate for a certified mechanic in the US, times the number of hours it takes on average to complete a repair. We recommend you compare your local shops with Jerry and contact those shops directly to get final pricing for your vehicle.

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What parts do I need for my exhaust manifold replacement and how much do those parts cost?

Your mechanic or your owner’s manual will outline the exact parts needed for your exhaust manifold replacement, but in general, you’ll need the following components:

Exhaust manifold: The exhaust manifold takes gasses from the engine’s cylinders and sends them through the exhaust pipe. This is the main part in the replacement, and it typically costs $100 to $300 depending on the vehicle.

Exhaust manifold gaskets: The exhaust manifold is secured to the engine’s cylinder heads with gaskets. These gaskets are typically replaced with the exhaust manifold. The average cost for an exhaust manifold gasket is $40.

Exhaust manifold studs and nuts: The exhaust manifold is attached to the engine’s cylinder heads with studs and nuts, which are sometimes reusable. If the studs and nuts need to be replaced, they will cost approximately $25.

Anti-seize compound: Anti-seize compound is used on the exhaust manifold studs and nuts to prevent them from seizing. Anti-seize compounds typically cost $30.

Heat shield: Since exhaust manifolds are very hot, they typically have heat shields that protect the other vehicle components. Damaged heat shields should be replaced with the exhaust manifold. Heat shields usually cost $90.

Exhaust flange gasket : The exhaust manifold and the exhaust pipe are connected by a flange gasket, which may need to be replaced with the exhaust manifold. Exhaust flange gaskets cost $15 to $25.

You can purchase exhaust manifold parts for your car from auto parts stores like AutoZone, NAPA Auto Parts, and Advance Auto Parts, as well as online retailers such as Amazon and RockAuto. Three brands we recommend for exhaust manifold parts are Dorman, Walker, and Bosal. However, the right parts and brands for your exhaust manifold replacement will depend on your vehicle’s year, make, and model.

Where can I buy parts for my exhaust manifold replacement?

You can buy parts for your exhaust manifold replacement from the following sources:

The dealership/manufacturer: For OEM parts, made for your vehicle

Automotive parts shops or auto body retailers (AutoZone, NAPA Auto Parts, and Advance Auto Parts): For OEM or aftermarket parts

Online retailers (Amazon, RockAuto): For aftermarket parts

Should I buy OEM or aftermarket parts?

Aftermarket parts are typically recommended for exhaust manifold replacements because they are made from steel. Steel is more durable and operates better than cast iron, which is usually used for OEM exhaust manifolds.

However, your OEM exhaust manifold may come with a warranty. Contact your dealership for information about replacing your exhaust manifold.

Find out what parts are recommended for my car

Where can I get my exhaust manifold replaced?

Your exhaust manifold replacement will need to be done by a certified mechanic. Luckily,

Jerry's GarageGuard™

can help you find the best shop for the job by comparing car repair costs from over 2,500 vetted repair shops in the US.

Jerry's GarageGuard™ compares fair price estimates* from each shop using their real hourly labor rate, their diagnostics fees, and the general cost of parts for your replacement. To pick the best car repair service, you can also look through real shop reviews.

Check out some of our vetted shops below and download the app to compare car repair quotes in your area.

174 Reviews

Yoo's Auto Service & Collision

189 W Duncannon Ave, Philadelphia, PA

Exhaust Manifold Replacement Cost

Fair Cost Estimate for This Shop

$703

(Parts - $338, Labor - $365)

Shop Diagnostic Fee

(Included in service charges)

$100

Compare this shop for free with Jerry (215) 457-7777

114 Reviews

Tune Up Plus - Chesapeake

111 Gainsborough Square E Suite E, Chesapeake, VA

Exhaust Manifold Replacement Cost

Fair Cost Estimate for This Shop

$876

(Parts - $338, Labor - $538)

Shop Diagnostic Fee

(Included in service charges)

$125

Compare this shop for free with Jerry (757) 547-9908

198 Reviews

Harrell's Auto Service - Gillespie

1128 Gillespie St, Fayetteville, NC

Exhaust Manifold Replacement Cost

Fair Cost Estimate for This Shop

$811

(Parts - $338, Labor - $473)

Shop Diagnostic Fee

(Included in service charges)

$129.99

Compare this shop for free with Jerry (910) 483-7074

155 Reviews

1 Stop Auto Services

469 Crescent Blvd, Camden, NJ

Exhaust Manifold Replacement Cost

Fair Cost Estimate for This Shop

$682

(Parts - $338, Labor - $344)

Shop Diagnostic Fee

(Included in service charges)

$40

Compare this shop for free with Jerry (856) 475-5084

How did we vet these shops?
Jerry experts researched 2500+ real repair shops across the US. We talked to real shop customers, and analyzed both real shop pricing data and thousands of real customer reviews from each shop to verify them individually. We do not partner with the shops listed above, and our analysis is always unbiased.

How will a mechanic replace my exhaust manifold?

An exhaust manifold replacement requires the right tools and knowledge of a vehicle’s exhaust system. If your car has a bad exhaust manifold, your mechanic will run a diagnostic test and replace it with these steps:

Preparation: Mechanics typically lift the vehicle with a car hoist or jack stands to access the exhaust manifold. As a safety measure, they will also disconnect your car battery.

Remove surrounding parts: The engine cover, heat shields, air intake, intake manifold, and other components will need to be removed so your mechanic can access the exhaust manifold.

Disconnect the exhaust system: Your mechanic will disconnect the exhaust manifold from the exhaust pipe by removing the bolts or nuts used to secure them.

Remove the exhaust manifold: Next, your mechanic will remove the bolts that hold the exhaust manifold to the engine's cylinder heads. Sometimes, these bolts fuse together due to heat, so your mechanic may need to use a special fluid to detach them. Once the bolts are removed, they will carefully move the old exhaust manifold from the cylinder heads.

Remove the old exhaust manifold gasket: The old gasket for your exhaust manifold will be removed from the cylinder heads once the manifold is taken off.

Clean the cylinder head exhaust ports: Before installing the new exhaust manifold, the mechanic will clean the cylinder heads to ensure a proper seal with the new manifold.

Install the new exhaust manifold: The mechanic will attach the new exhaust manifold gasket to the cylinder heads and a new gasket will be added to the new exhaust manifold and the exhaust pipes. Under the vehicle, the new manifold will be connected to the exhaust pipes, and the manifold will then be attached to the cylinder head studs. Your mechanic will tighten all of the new nuts, and reinstall the heat shield.

Reinstalling parts: If any parts were removed to access the exhaust manifold, the mechanic will reinstall them. Your battery will be reconnected at this point.

Refill coolant: For most vehicles, your mechanic will need to refill the coolant after the exhaust manifold is replaced.

Testing: After the replacement is finished, the mechanic will test for any exhaust leaks or strange noises. They may take the vehicle for a test drive to ensure everything is functioning correctly.

What happens if I don’t replace my exhaust manifold?

Take your vehicle to a mechanic as soon as possible if you notice any signs of a bad exhaust manifold. A failing exhaust manifold can lead to the following issues:

Exhaust gas leaks

Reduced engine performance

Trouble accelerating

Lower fuel efficiency

High emissions and failed emissions tests

Damaged engine parts (i.e. spark plugs, oxygen sensors)

What is an exhaust manifold?

The exhaust manifold is usually a series of steel pipes or a cast iron manifold assembly, depending on your engine and vehicle type. The exhaust manifold collects the burned exhaust gasses from the engine’s cylinders and ejects them via the tailpipe.

When should I replace the exhaust manifold on my car?

You’ll know it’s time to replace your exhaust manifold based on these signs:

Exhaust leaks: A cracked or damaged exhaust manifold will lead to exhaust leaks. You’ll notice an exhaust leak if you hear a hissing or clicking sound coming from the engine bay or from underneath the car.

Failed emissions test: Your vehicle will fail an emissions test if your exhaust manifold is damaged.

Check engine light: Your vehicle’s engine control unit (ECU) or powertrain control module (PCM) will illuminate the check engine light on your dashboard if your exhaust manifold is malfunctioning.

Lower performance: A bad exhaust manifold can reduce your engine’s power and lower your fuel economy.

Visible damage: Your exhaust manifold will show signs of physical damage, including cracks or corrosion.

Burned or overheating parts: Your vehicle’s surrounding components may be damaged if your damaged exhaust manifold is radiating excessive heat.

Age and mileage: Your exhaust manifold is exposed to high temperatures and rough conditions, so it’s bound to deteriorate over time. Routinely check your exhaust system for damage to your exhaust pipe, exhaust manifold, exhaust gas recirculation (EGR_ valve, and your exhaust gaskets.

How often should an exhaust manifold be replaced?

Exhaust manifolds do not have prescribed replacement intervals. In fact, proper maintenance can keep your exhaust manifold running smoothly throughout your engine’s lifetime.

In most cases, the older your vehicle and engine are, the more likely you’ll run into exhaust manifold issues. Routinely inspect your exhaust manifold and watch out for signs of deterioration to ensure it’s replaced if necessary.

Can I replace my exhaust manifold myself?

An exhaust manifold replacement requires the expertise and steady handling of a certified mechanic. Avoid changing your own exhaust manifold if you have limited car repair experience.

Your best option is to take your vehicle to a mechanic for a clean and correct exhaust manifold replacement.

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FAQs

How much does an exhaust manifold replacement cost?

On average, an exhaust manifold replacement costs $841, with $393 for labor costs and $448 for parts. The price will vary depending on your vehicle.

Can I drive my car with a bad exhaust manifold?

You can drive with a bad exhaust manifold, but you shouldn’t.

The longer you drive with a bad exhaust manifold, the more you’ll be exposed to exhaust fumes, and other parts of your engine will also be exposed to severe heat. A damaged exhaust manifold will take a toll on your vehicle over time, so it’s best to avoid driving and get the part replaced as soon as possible.

How much does it cost to fix an exhaust manifold leak?

On average, it costs $160 to $330 to fix an exhaust manifold leak. The exact price will depend on your vehicle and where you take it for repairs.

Will a cracked exhaust manifold damage the engine?

A cracked exhaust manifold can damage your engine. For example, your engine’s head gaskets may blow or overheat due to a cracked exhaust manifold. Additionally, your engine will be under extra stress if your exhaust manifold isn’t doing its job, so you could notice performance issues including stalling or complete failure.

Meet Our Experts

John Davis

Car Expert

Certified mechanic with 10+ years of experience

John Davis is an expert automotive writer and former automotive mechanic. John's work spans multiple categories, and he relishes the opportunity to research a new subject and expand his area of expertise and industry knowledge. To date, John has written more than 200 articles covering car maintenance and care, car advice, how-to guides, and more.

Prior to joining Jerry’s editorial team, John worked as a mechanic and freelance writer, creating content for clients including HotCars and SetPower.

Jessica Barrett

Car Expert

Jessica Barrett is a senior insurance writer and editor with 10 years of experience in the automotive and travel industries. A specialist in car insurance, car loans, and car ownership, Jessica’s mission is to create comprehensive content that car owners can use to manage their costs and improve their lives. As a managing editor for a team of writers and insurance specialists, Jessica has edited over 2,000 articles for Jerry on topics ranging from local insurance shopping tips to refinancing car loans with bad credit.

Before joining Jerry as a senior content editor in 2021, Jessica created visual content for clients such as Expedia, Vivid Seats, Budget Direct Car Insurance, Angie’s List, and HomeAdvisor. Her content was published in Business Insider, Forbes, Apartment Therapy, and the BBC.

Kathleen Flear

Car Expert

Kathleen Flear is an expert insurance writer and editor who heads up Jerry’s editorial team as director of content. Kathleen empowers drivers to make smart car ownership decisions through best-in-class articles on insurance, loans, and maintenance. Prior to joining Jerry in 2021, Kathleen served as managing editor for a team of SEO content marketing professionals at Article-Writing.co and worked as a freelance writer and editor for a range of digital publications, including Chicago Literati magazine and Golden Words. She earned a bachelor’s degree in English language and literature from Queen’s University, and a master’s degree in creative writing and fiction from Sierra Nevada University.

*The price information provided on our car repair webpages is intended for general informational purposes only. Actual prices for car repair services may vary based on various factors, including but not limited to the make and model of your vehicle, the extent of repair required, and the prevailing market conditions. All prices for real repair shops are estimations based on our research only. Therefore, the prices listed on our webpages should not be considered as final quotes or binding offers.